Join us for an intimate performance of ‘Swilkie’, the new album from Highlands-based songwriter Iona Lane.
Charting at No. 23 in the Official Folk Album Charts ‘Swilkie’ weaves ecology, conservation, islands and folklore into poetic songs and contemplative melodies. Written during three residencies on the Isle of Eigg, Isle of Mull and Sanday in Orkney, sense of place and landscape are at the core of these songs. From basking sharks to lighthouses, lichen to vanishing islands, curlews to tree planting; the album was recorded in a boathouse on the West Coast of Scotland and the eager listener may even hear the lapping sound of the tide murmuring through the album. Iona’s connection to places by the sea is translated through these songs with evolving vocal melodies, subtle guitar and droning shruti box.
“It stopped me in my tracks when I first heard it… Haunting, touching, atmospheric, loving it!” – Mark Radcliffe, BBC Radio 2
“Dream-like and hypnotic. Musicianship is first-class throughout!” – Folk London (2025)
“Swilkie is evocative of coastline, nature and history and has a wispy quality, much like the sound of wind and sea reflecting Iona’s airy, light and gentle voice which suits the nature of her songwriting. ****” – RnR (2025)